40 years ago: Oskaloosa residents discuss proposed vo-tech school

Gov. Robert Docking was heading for the hospital to be placed in traction for several days. The governor was suffering from a pinched nerve in the sacroiliac area of his back and was experiencing severe pain.

Down in Wellington, Kan., a major fire had destroyed two business buildings in the downtown area. The fire, assisted by 30-mile-an-hour winds, had burned out of control for several hours as nearly a dozen fire units from nearby counties responded.

About 15 students and parents attended a school board meeting in Oskaloosa to discuss details of their district’s planned participation in a vocational-technical school. One concern mentioned by board members was whether the academic subjects offered would fulfill Oskaloosa high school graduation requirements.

The K-10 bridge project on Lawrence’s East 23rd Street was nearly completed. All that remained was the sidewalks, curbs, an asphalt covering for the bridge, and general cleanup.